Multiple causes for rheumatoid arthritis

Though the illness can last for years, patients may experience long periods without symptoms. Typically, however, rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive illness that has the potential to cause joint functional disability.

The disease is three times more common in women as in men and afflicts people of all races equally. It can begin at any age, but most often starts after age 40 and before 60. In some families, multiple members can be affected, suggesting a genetic basis for the disorder.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) causes joint inflammation and stiffness for more than six weeks in a child aged 16 or younger. Inflammation causes redness, swelling, warmth, and soreness in the joints, although many children with JRA do not complain of joint pain.

The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Even though infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi have long been suspected, none has been proven. Some scientists believe that the tendency to develop rheumatoid arthritis may be genetically inherited.

Environmental factors also seem to play some role in causing rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, scientists have reported that smoking tobacco increases the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

When the disease is active, symptoms can include fatigue, lack of appetite, low-grade fever, muscle and joint aches, and stiffness. Muscle and joint stiffness are usually most notable in the morning and after periods of inactivity.

In rheumatoid arthritis, multiple joints are usually inflamed in a symmetrical pattern (both sides of the body affected). The small joints of both the hands and wrists are often involved. Simple tasks of daily living, such as turning door knobs and opening jars can become difficult during flares.

Chronic inflammation can cause damage to body tissues, cartilage, and bone. This leads to a loss of cartilage and erosion and weakness of the bones as well as the muscles, resulting in joint deformity, destruction, and loss of function.

Early diagnosis for RA is very important to start treatment by anti-rheumatic drugs which is called DMRDS (Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs). Treatment usually continues for long time or throughout life. It includes medicines that are used to achieve remission. These drugs are slow acting and take weeks to act but their action lasts for long.

Dr. Adnan Abdulwahid, Head of the Department of Rheumatology at Zulekha Hospital, follows all cases of undiagnosed arthritis and osteoporosis with special interest and is also active in training and rehabilitation of all Rheumatologic and joints diseases cases. news@khaleejtimes.com